PhD Stipend/Integrated PhD: A fantastic opportunity for a PhD stipend or Integrated PhD stipend is now open at Aalborg University (AAU), Faculty of Engineering and Science, Department of Chemistry and Bioscience. The project focuses on the biological and environmental impacts of RNA-based pesticides with advanced molecular and bioinformatics techniques.
PhD Stipend/Integrated PhD in Detection of RNA-Based Pesticides
Designation
PhD Fellow / Integrated PhD Fellow
Key Details
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Title | PhD Stipend/Integrated PhD in Detection of RNA-Based Pesticides |
| Funding Body | Novo Nordisk Foundation |
| Location | Aalborg University, Department of Chemistry and Bioscience |
| Duration | 3 years (for PhD stipend) or 4 years (Integrated PhD stipend) |
| Application Deadline | 15th February 2025 |
| Start Date | 1st March 2025 (PhD stipend) or 1st September 2025 (Integrated PhD stipend) |
| Ref. Number | 18-25006 |
Research Area
The project focuses on the detection, biological effects, and environmental fate of biotechnological pesticides employing double-stranded RNA (dsRNA). This falls under the PhD study program in Biotechnology, Chemistry, and Environmental Engineering.
Eligibility/Qualification
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- For PhD stipend: Master’s degree in biotechnology, toxicology, biology, biochemistry, or similar.
- For Integrated PhD stipend: Completion of 4 years of full-time studies (and currently enrolled in a relevant Master’s program).
- Knowledge or experience with advanced molecular techniques like transcriptomics, proteomics, or bioinformatics.
- Strong data analysis, statistical, collaborative, and communication skills.
- Excellent proficiency in oral and written English.
- Applicants must be interested in working in an interdisciplinary research environment.
Description
The PhD fellow will engage in the ENSAFE project (ENvironmental SAFEty of biotechnological plant protection products based on double-stranded RNA and peptides). Key responsibilities include:
- Developing methods to detect double-stranded RNA in environmental samples (both direct and indirect).
- Studying the environmental fate of new RNA-based products, including the US-approved Ledprona.
- Assessing species-specific effects of RNA-based pesticides using molecular/cellular biology techniques (e.g., transcriptomics, proteomics, microbiome analysis).
- Collaborating with experts in ecotoxicology and biopesticide risk assessment at institutions like the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology and the University of Copenhagen.
The candidate will also participate in teaching, global change biology, ecosystem modeling, and supervising project-based student groups.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must apply online and submit the following documents:
- A cover letter (1–2 pages) explaining motivation and qualifications in relation to the position.
- A project description (optional – may use the provided one).
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Copies of diplomas and transcripts of academic records.
- Any other relevant information.
For further details about the project, contact Professor Jeppe Lund Nielsen at jln@bio.aau.dk.
Last Date for Application
15th February 2025
Additional Information
Salary and stipends are as per the Ministry of Finance Circular for Academics in Denmark. PhD fellows will be regularly assessed as per guidelines set by the Doctoral School of Engineering and Science, Aalborg University.
For queries regarding stipends, salaries, and application procedures, contact Ms. Vigdis Skomager-Bohnfeldt at vkns@adm.aau.dk.
Apply online now for this remarkable research opportunity in environmental safety and biotechnology!
